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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.